Rico Gafford

Wide Receiver

2021 Update – Rico Gafford played in 3 games in 2020 for the Raiders. He was thrown 3 passes and didn’t catch one of them. He had a hamstring injury and went on the Covid List. When he was finally reactivated, he was an Arizona Cardinal. See you on the other side of the line Rico.

Rico Gafford is a man of many talents. He’s a great football player. But aside from that, Rico has a passion for food and now owns his own small business restaurant.

Thoughts about seriously playing football started for Rico at East High School. When The Des Moines Register recognized Rico as an All-State Cornerback, and thoughts started swirling. When Rico transferred to Dowling Catholic High School for his senior year, he was again recognized as All-State.

His great speed was discovered early in life when he was competing in High School. He set the state’s 100-meter dash record at 10.61 seconds. Additionally, he won the Class 4A 200-meter dash title. Football was a great choice of where to use his speed and energy.

Professional Career

The Oakland Raiders signed Rico to the practice squad on September 3, 2018. Originally meant to be solely a cornerback, the Raiders chose to try him at wide receiver as well. Rico’s impressive speed and great hands earned him a promotion to the active roster soon after the season started. His first career reception TD was on December 8, 2019, against the Tennessee Titans. It was a memorable 49-yard touchdown reception thrown by Derek Carr.

Did You Know?

Rico Gafford and His Wife: A Partnership On and Off the Field

Rico Gafford, the versatile football player known for his speed and agility, often shares his appreciation for his wife on social media. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he expressed his gratitude, stating, “I don’t know how I got so lucky to have such an amazing wife but I thank God everyday for bringing you into my life!“

Beyond his football career, Gafford has ventured into the culinary world; he and his wife co-own Rico’s at Drake, a restaurant in Des Moines, Iowa, reflecting their shared commitment to community and entrepreneurship. Their restaurant has become a popular spot, known for its welcoming atmosphere and great food, showing their passion for bringing people together. Whether on the field or in business, Gafford continues to prove that hard work and dedication are key to success.

Rico Gafford Celebrates Halloween with His Kids

Football player Rico Gafford embraced the Halloween spirit with his two children, stepping out in adorable matching dinosaur costumes. Holding his youngest in one arm and walking alongside his older child, Gafford looked every bit the dedicated dad, making memories with his little ones.

Their festive outfits, complete with pumpkin trick-or-treat baskets, captured the joy of the holiday, proving that family time is just as important as game time for the Raiders’ speedster. The heartwarming moment showcased Gafford’s playful side off the field, as he fully embraced the tradition to make the night special for his kids.

Fans and followers praised the touching family moment, admiring his commitment to both fatherhood and football.